From Airport to Urban Destination ...

The former Downsview Airport lands, spanning approximately 370 acres, are being transformed into one of North America’s largest urban redevelopment projects, creating a network of transit-connected neighbourhoods anchored by a reimagined Runway. YZD is envisioned as a vibrant mixed-use community with new housing, employment opportunities, parks, public spaces, and community amenities.

Since 2021, Spanier Group has been assisting Northcrest Developments to shape key visioning and implementation components of the emerging Hangar District, Wilson District and the broader YZD lands. The mandate has focused on shaping non-residential and mixed-use strategies that strengthen placemaking, support employment uses, and establish a vibrant amenity base for future residents, workers, and visitors.

Spanier Group has also provided strategic advisory services related to early site activation, district evolution, and master planning coordination, collaborating with the broader consultant team to refine district visions, retail strategies, physical plans, and implementation approaches across the site.

In addition, Spanier Group supported Northcrest in framing the Request for Proposals (“RFP”) process for the Runway, helping shape the approach for this defining public space within the broader YZD vision.

YZD represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine large-scale urban redevelopment in Toronto through an integrated approach to placemaking, employment, housing, and public life, setting a benchmark for city-building and destination creation in Canada.